Isobutanol

1Identification

Name

Isobutanol

IUPAC name

2-methylpropan-1-ol

CAS number

78-83-1

EC number

201-148-0

Molecular formula

C4H10O

Molecular weight

74.12 g/mol

InChIKey

ZXEKIIBDNHEJCQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CC(C)CO

PubChem CID

6560

Synonyms

Isobutanol, 2-Methyl-1-propanol, ISOBUTYL ALCOHOL, 2-Methylpropan-1-ol, Isopropylcarbinol, 1-Propanol, 2-methyl-, 1-Hydroxymethylpropane, Iso-butyl alcohol, 2-Methylpropyl alcohol, Isobutylalkohol, 2-Methylpropanol, 2-Methyl propanol, Alcool isobutylique, Fermentation butyl alcohol

Recommended uses

• Used as solvent in lacquers, paint removers, and liquid chromatography; used in organic synthesis; [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• For Isobutyl alcohol (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 001507) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not registered for current use in the U.S., but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Fuel Fuel agents Monomers Surfactant (surface active agent) Other Dispersing agent Solvent Laboratory chemicals Intermediate Sealant (barrier) Waterproofing agent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Diluent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Diluent Corrosion inhibitor Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Fuel agents Fuel Monomers Solvent Dispersing agent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Fragrance Ingredients · Flavoring Agents -> JECFA Flavorings Index · Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENTFood Additives -> EXTRACTION_SOLVENT -> JECFA Functional Classes

Description

• Isobutanol appears as a clear colorless liquid with a sweet odor. Flash point 85 - 100 °F. Less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Isobutanol is an alkyl alcohol that is propan-1-ol substituted by a methyl group at position 2. It has a role as a Saccharomyces cerevisiae metabolite. It is a primary alcohol and an alkyl alcohol. It derives from a hydride of an isobutane.
  ChEBI
• isobutyl alcohol has been reported in Angelica gigas, Lucensosergia lucens, and other organisms with data available.
  LOTUS - the natural products occurrence database

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02, GHS05, GHS07

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

6 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 3 - Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions. Materials produce hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient temperatures or, though unaffected by ambient temperatures, are readily ignited under almost all conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Contact with eyes is extremely irritating and may cause burns. Breathing vapors will be irritating to the nose and throat. In high concentrations, may cause nausea, dizziness, headache, and stupor. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. · Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. · Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. · Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids will float on water. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. · Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. · Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. · Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). · Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. · Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. · Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. · Containers may explode when heated. · Many liquids will float on water.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Flammable. Above 28 °C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• In mice, 6400 ppm produces narcosis, but not death. [ACGIH] A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; Inhalation of high concentrations can cause CNS depression; [ICSC]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Water flush promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, flush the contaminated skin with water promptly. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water promptly. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Headache. Dizziness. Drowsiness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain. Dry skin.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Toxic gases and vapors (such as carbon monoxide) may be released in a fire involving isobutyl alcohol.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. Wash away remainder with plenty of water.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• 1. Remove all ignition sources. 2. Ventilate area of spill or leak. For small quantities, absorb on paper towels. Evaporate in safe place ... allow sufficient time for evaporating vapors to completely clear hood ductwork. Burn paper in suitable location away from combustible materials. Large quantities can be collected & atomized in suitable combustion chamber.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Contain spillage, and then collect with an electrically protected vacuum cleaner or by wet-brushing and place in container for disposal according to local regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants and aluminium.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carfully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Keep away from heat and open flame.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Isobutyl alcohol: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F). Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Complete suit protecting against chemical, flame retardant antistatic protective clothing, the type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• If the use of respirators is necessary, the only respirators permitted are those that have been approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (formerly Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration) or by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. ... Employees should be provided with and required to use impervious clothing, gloves, face shields (eight-inch minimum), and other appropriate protective clothing necessary to prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact with liquid isobutyl alcohol. ... Employees should be provided with and required to use splash-proof safety goggles where liquid isobutyl alcohol may contact the eyes.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Breakthrough times less (usually significantly less) than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers for natural rubber. Breakthrough times greater than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers for neoprene, nitrile rubber (nitrile), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). no data for butyl rubber (butyl), nitrile rubber/polyvinyl chloride (nitrile/PVC), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and viton.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH Up to 500 ppm: (APF = 10) Any chemical cartridge respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator* Up to 1250 ppm: (APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode* (APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* Up to 1600 ppm: (APF = 50) Any chemical cartridge respirator with a full facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s) (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister (APF = 50) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with a tight-fitting facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 50) Any self-contained…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• ISOBUTANOL is an alcohol. Flammable and/or toxic gases are generated by the combination of alcohols with alkali metals, nitrides, and strong reducing agents. They react with oxoacids and carboxylic acids to form esters plus water. Oxidizing agents convert them to aldehydes or ketones. Alcohols exhibit both weak acid and weak base behavior. They may initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides. This chemical is incompatible with strong oxidizers. (NTP, 1992)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Soluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Contact with strong oxidizers may cause fires & explosions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Strong oxidizers.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• ... Corrosive & will attack some forms of plastics, rubber, & coatings.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Heat /contributes to instability/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Routes of exposure

• The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour and by ingestion.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Target organs

• Nervous
  EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)
• Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is severely irritating to the eyes. The substance is irritating to the skin. Exposure far above the OEL could cause lowering of consciousness. If this liquid is swallowed, aspiration into the lungs may result in chemical pneumonitis.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Environmental fate

• Isobutyl alcohol's production and use as a replacement process solvent for n-butanol and as an intermediate in the flavor, fragrance, pesticide and pharmaceutical industries may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. The primary route of environmental release in terms of industrial quantities is through evaporation when used as a direct solvent. Isobutyl alcohol is a naturally occurring substance associated with fermentation of carbohydrates, fruits, animal wastes, microbes, and as a plant volatile. If released to air a vapor pressure of 10.4 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates isobutyl alcohol will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Ecotoxicity

• EC50; Species: Scenedesmus subspicatus (Green Algae) exponential growth phase; Conditions: freshwater, static, 24 °C, pH 8.0-9.3; Concentration: 1250000 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: population, decreased biomass /formulation/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• LC50; Species: Xenopus laevis (African Clawed Frog) age 3-4 wk; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C; Concentration: 18300 ug/L for 48 hr /formulation/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• LC50; Species: Rana catesbeiana (Bullfrog) weight 2.44 g; Conditions: freshwater, flow through, 17.1 (16.8-17.5) °C, pH 8.03 (8.00-8.06), hardness 196 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 172 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen 7.91 mg/L (7.54-8.16 mg/L); Concentration: 3010000 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence interval: 2820000-3210000 ug/L)
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

13Disposal considerations

• Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U140, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Good candidate for liquid injection incineration, with a temperature range of 650 to 1600 °C, and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. Also, a good candidate for rotary kiln incineration, with a temperature range of 820 to 1600 °C, and a residence time of seconds. Additionally, a good candidate for fluidized bed incineration, with a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C, and a residence time of seconds. /From table/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1212

Shipping name

• UN 1212; Isobutanol
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 3; Isobutanol
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Isobutanol or Isobutyl alcohol
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1212
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Class 3 Flammable and combustible liquid (49 eCFR § 173.120)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Flammable Liquid
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: III
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1212 129
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Isobutanol is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of isobutyl alcohol are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops only. Use: solvent.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 5000 lb or 2270 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802; The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. 1-Propanol, 2-methyl is included on this list. Effective date: 3/7/86; Sunset date: 3/7/96.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• U140; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when isobutyl alcohol, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Isobutyl alcohol is a food additive permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption as a synthetic flavoring substance and adjuvant in accordance with the following conditions: a) they are used in the minimum quantity required to produce their intended effect, and otherwise in accordance with all the principles of good manufacturing practice, and 2) they consist of one or more of the following, used alone or in combination with flavoring substances and adjuvants generally recognized as safe in food, prior-sanctioned for such use, or regulated by an appropriate section in this part.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 6560 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.